Hulusi Akar responds to backlash over barbecue party in Kayseri: 'Bon appétit to those who consume it'

AKP Kayseri Deputy Hulusi Akar, who grilled sausages at a barbecue party held during the Erciyes High Altitude Camp Center promotional ceremony in Kayseri, has responded to the criticism that followed the event.

During the event held last week, Akar and Minister of Youth and Sports Osman Aşkın Bak served sausages to the participants. However, many people on social media reacted to the event, citing austerity measures and the high cost of living.

CRITICISM FROM ENGİNYURT

Democrat Party Deputy Chairman Cemal Enginyurt issued a harsh critique, referencing Akar's previous remarks: "We will teach children the fear of God and shame before others starting from the age of 4."

Enginyurt stated, "Is this your understanding of fearing God and feeling shame before others? You feel no shame before others, nor do you fear God; you have lost your way. Shame on you."

BON APPÉTIT TO THOSE WHO CONSUME THIS

In a statement on his social media account, Hulusi Akar argued that the news reports did not reflect the truth. He posted, "Bon appétit to those who prepare, cook, serve, and consume lies, deceit, corruption, and discord as news. A little reason, a little conscience, a little fairness... Political Ethics? Press Ethics?"

Following the barbecue party, Akar also shared the remarks of Kayseri Metropolitan Mayor Memduh Büyükkılıç. Büyükkılıç stated that they served sausages at the event, saying, "We all saw that our Ministers did not even take a single bite during the sausage service... What comes to mind when you think of Kayseri? Sausage, pastrami, and manti. I mean, we weren't going to serve roasted chickpeas."